This Buttered Honey Mustard Oven Salmon is flaky and flavorful, combining tangy mustard with sweet honey. It’s super easy to prepare in just one dish!
Honestly, my favorite part is how the honey caramelizes in the oven. It’s like a sweet little surprise with every bite! Perfect with some veggies on the side.
I love making this salmon on busy nights; it cooks quickly and makes the kitchen smell amazing. Just pop it in the oven and enjoy a tasty, healthy meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Salmon: Fresh salmon is the star of this dish. You can use skin-on for additional flavor and moisture or skinless for lower fat. If fresh salmon isn’t available, frozen works fine too—just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking.
Mustard: Dijon mustard gives a nice tang, while whole grain mustard adds texture. If you’re not a mustard fan, consider using a mild honey mustard or even a balsamic glaze as a substitute.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, maple syrup or agave can work as great substitutes. You can also reduce the amount for a less sweet flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter balances the dish nicely. Don’t have any on hand? Olive oil or a vegan butter alternative will work perfectly, giving a slightly different flavor but still delicious.
How Can You Ensure Your Salmon Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking salmon perfectly can be tricky. Here are a few tips to get it just right:
- Check the thickness: Salmon cooks quickly, and thicker fillets need a bit more time. Rule of thumb: 4 to 6 minutes per half-inch of thickness.
- Look for flakiness: When the salmon flakes easily with a fork, it’s done. If it’s still translucent in the middle, give it a few more minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer: If you have one, aim for an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for the most accurate test.
Trust your senses! Enjoying the delightful aroma as it cooks will have your mouth watering before you even dig in!
Buttered Honey Mustard Oven Salmon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb salmon fillet, skin on or off as preferred
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 5 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, totaling around 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, get your baking dish or tray ready by lining it with parchment paper. This will make cleanup super easy later!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, Dijon mustard, whole grain mustard, honey, lemon juice, and minced garlic. Keep whisking until everything is nice and smooth. This flavorful mixture is what makes the salmon so tasty!
3. Prepare the Salmon:
Take the salmon fillet and place it skin-side down (if it has skin) on your prepared baking dish. Lightly season the salmon with salt and pepper to taste. This enhances the flavor even more!
4. Add the Sauce:
Pour the honey mustard butter mixture over the salmon, making sure it’s fully coated. Don’t be shy; you want that flavor to soak in!
5. Bake the Salmon:
Put the salmon in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the salmon flakes easily with a fork. Keep an eye on it, as thicker fillets may need a bit more time to cook through.
6. Serve it Up:
Once the salmon is done, take it out of the oven and spoon some of the delicious pan juices over the top for a burst of flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing!
7. Enjoy!
Dig into your delightful Buttered Honey Mustard Oven Salmon! It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your meal!
This recipe yields a tender salmon with a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy buttery sauce, perfectly enhanced by mustard’s gentle warmth—sure to impress anyone at your dinner table!
Can I Use Frozen Salmon for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen salmon completely before cooking. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard for a milder flavor or honey mustard for a sweeter twist. Whole grain mustard will also provide a different texture and taste, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Baking Dish?
Yes! Feel free to add some vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini around the salmon. Just toss them in a little olive oil and seasoning before adding them to the dish—they’ll cook beautifully alongside the salmon!